An interview with Professional Ski Enthusiasts
(also rentals managers at Sports Basement)

By Jess Grant, Creative Director

One of the best things about working at Sports Basement is that if you're ever in need of advice on how to plan a super-efficient trip to Tahoe (like I was recently), there is an absolute treasure trove of super knowledgeable, super talented coworkers around to dole out advice. Enter Oliver Palopo, SB Redwood City rentals manager and Jeff Boyanich, SB Sunnyvale rentals manager. They just came back from a ski trip a few days back, and as much as I hate the term "tips and tricks", Oliver and Jeff really do have a plethora of both. It seemed needlessly selfish of me to hoard all their knowledge to myself when I could share it with you!

Jess:

There's great snow everywhere right now, thanks to this insane weather we're having - what are some underrated resorts you might recommend that are maybe more off the trafficked path?

Oliver & Jeff:

You've got young kids, so definitely take a look at Diamond Peak - it's got amazing views of Lake Tahoe, and it's great for families. Homewood is also much less crowded, and they've got surprisingly good powder stashes. Mt. Rose is very close to inexpensive places to stay in Reno, plus their high elevation means better/more snow a lot of the time. If you're trying to do a day trip, Bear Valley is a shorter drive from the Bay Area - like 3.5 hours without traffic, and you'll rarely run into any on that route. Sierra-at-Tahoe is also a shorter drive from the Bay, though it can get busy at times. Still, it's not usually as crowded as the major resorts.

Jess:

That's a great jumping off point. Okay - you know I'll need rentals and both of you definitely know our rentals. What's the best time to pick up rental gear at SB? What's the best time to come in for a boot fitting?

Oliver & Jeff:

The best days to pick up rentals are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays, about 1-2 hours after we open. Lunch and dinner time are usually the best times to get boots fitted and pick up gear, because it gets a little slower. But be sure to get fitted before making a reservation whenever possible. It’ll make the line go exponentially faster. Plus, we can only guarantee the size you reserve.

Jess:

Will do. I'll bring you lunch too, if you want! Oh, speaking of lunch - what restaurants or towns do you recommend stopping at on the drive up to Tahoe?

Oliver & Jeff:

Burger & Cream in Auburn, and Ikedas (also in Auburn) are my favorites. Roseville is a great choice if you’re looking for a variety of options to eat at, plus it’s the last Costco gas station on the way up to Tahoe.

Jess:

What gear should I pack for the drive up to Tahoe? What actually makes the biggest difference?

Oliver & Jeff:

Hand warmers, if not for your hands, then for your phones/GoPros/electronics. All-weather floor mat, chains/cables/auto socks for your tires (open up the packaging and practice using them before you're out on the road). And of course you'll want emergency road supplies just in case: first aid kit, some snacks, blankets, water in an insulated water bottle, antifreeze wiper fluid, waterproof footwear, and wool/synthetic clothing - no cotton! You'll also want some extra dry clothes to change into (I love wearing sweats after a day of riding), extra socks, ice scrapers, and a good set of waterproof gloves. Make sure to condition them if they’re leather - it matters!

Jess:

Any non-resort recommendations around Tahoe or Truckee? Restaurants, cafes, that kind of thing?

Oliver & Jeff:

Our favorite restaurants off the top of my head are Basecamp Pizza in Tahoe City, and Fireside Pizza or Rockers at Olympic Village Palisades. In South Lake Tahoe, try Empanash, Red Hut Cafe and Sonny’s BBQ, or Clyde's Coffee for a pick-me-up. If you're around Truckee, Jax at the Tracks, Burger Me, and Wild Cherries Coffee House and Old Town Tap are all great.

Jess:

Okay last question: any recommendations for gear that would make a newer skier/snowboarder have a great time on the slopes? Asking for a friend…

Oliver & Jeff:

Does having a patient knowledgeable friend count as gear?

What do you think I'm doing right now?

Haha well that's the best gear to have. Beyond that: crash pads, like those butt and knee pads from Seirus. Hand warmers. Edgie wedgie for the kids. The proper clothing and gear is invaluable to make sure you guys stay happy and dry, but also, you know, realize that everyone is different. Some people run hot, others run extra cold, and you have to kinda plan for it all. Always pack snacks and water, always pack a change of clothes in the car for afterwards. And always, always wear a helmet.

Thank you Oliver! Thank you Jeff!